Ken-Betwa River Linking Project: Controversies and Impact

Why in the news?

The Ken-Betwa River Linking Project was inaugurated to address water scarcity and boost irrigation, but it faces criticism over deforestation, displacement, and ecological damage in the Panna Tiger Reserve.

Ken-Betwa River Linking Project: Controversies and Impact

Controversies and Environmental Concerns

  • KBLP has faced criticism due to its environmental impact, including large-scale deforestation of about 98 sq. km in the Panna National Park and the felling of 2-3 million trees.
  • The dam will submerge 9,000 hectares of land, displacing 5,228 families in Chhatarpur and Panna districts.
  • Experts warn of potential hydrological consequences, such as altered land-atmosphere interactions, reduced rainfall, and harm to the Ken Gharial Sanctuary’s habitat.

Government Push and Criticisms

  • Despite concerns, the Union Cabinet approved ₹44,605 crore (at 2020-21 prices) for the project, which is expected to be completed in eight years.
  • Critics highlight inadequate public consultation, compensation for affected communities, and limited benefits for displaced populations.
  • The KBLP, the first interlinking project under the National Perspective Plan (1980), was designated a national project in 2008 and is part of initiatives to develop Bundelkhand’s drought-prone region.

About Ken-Betwa River Linking Project :

  • The Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP) aims to transfer water from the Ken River to the Betwa River via a 221-km canal.
  • Expected to irrigate 10.62 lakh hectares (8.11 lakh in MP and 2.51 lakh in UP), benefit 62 lakh people, and generate 103 MW of hydropower and 27 MW of solar power.
  • The project includes the Daudhan Dam, a crucial structure located within the Panna Tiger Reserve.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times